The Australian Open is embroiled in a burgeoning controversy as fitness tracking company Whoop challenges the tournament’s ban on wearable devices. On Wednesday, Whoop announced it is dispatching a new line of undergarments embedded with sensors to its star athletes, including Aryna Sabalenka, Jannik Sinner, and Carlos Alcaraz, to use during matches.
The move comes after the Australian Open prohibited players from wearing Whoop bands on the court, a decision that has sparked debate among players and officials alike. Whoop CEO Will Ahmed took to social media to voice the company’s defiance, stating, “To all the tennis players at the Australian Open. The sensor can be worn discreetly and effectively in our new undergarments. It’s going to take a strip search to keep Whoop off the court.”
Background of the Controversy
The controversy erupted when the Australian Open announced that Whoop bands, despite being approved by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), would not be allowed during matches. This decision contradicts the ITF’s stance, which permits the use of Whoop devices, citing their safety and utility in monitoring players’ health metrics.
In response, Whoop has begun shipping its “body collection” of undergarments to players, allowing them to continue tracking their performance discreetly. “We are going to be shipping out our Whoop body apparel,” Ahmed explained in a video statement. “This will allow them to be wearing these garments in matches, should they so choose.”
Players’ Reactions and Implications
Several high-profile players have expressed frustration over the ban. Aryna Sabalenka, the women’s world No.1, has publicly called for the reversal of the decision, highlighting the inconsistency with other tournaments. “I don’t understand why the grand slams are not allowing us to wear it and I really hope that they will reconsider the decision,” she said.
Jannik Sinner, a two-time defending champion, echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging the rules but expressing a desire for the data provided by the devices. “There is certain data we would like to track a little bit on court. It’s not for the live thing,” Sinner remarked. “But rules are rules. I understand. I won’t use it again.”
The Role of Technology in Tennis
While Whoop bands are not permitted, Tennis Australia offers players access to other data through Bolt 6, a tracking device used for electronic line calling. According to Tennis Australia, players can monitor external load measures such as distance covered and speed of shots via Bolt 6, although it does not provide the internal load data that Whoop offers.
Interestingly, Tennis Australia’s venture capital arm, AO Ventures, reportedly supports the Bolt 6 business, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest in the decision-making process regarding wearable technology at the tournament.
Future of Wearable Technology in Sports
The debate over wearable technology in sports is not new. As athletes increasingly rely on data to optimize performance and health, the question of how and when this technology can be used remains contentious. The Australian Open’s current stance highlights the ongoing struggle to balance tradition with innovation in sports.
As discussions continue, the outcome of this controversy could set a precedent for future tournaments and the role of technology in tennis. For now, players and fans alike await further developments as the Australian Open navigates this complex issue.
Meanwhile, Whoop’s bold move to equip players with sensor-embedded undergarments underscores the company’s commitment to athlete health and performance, potentially paving the way for new norms in sports technology.
